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Tuesday, February 12, 2013

That's right, 100 miles on the Sacramento River via SUP. Can I do it? Should I do it? It's not going to paddle itself is it? I have a feeling it's going to be a really, really, long day. Stay tuned for more details...

Friday, February 1, 2013

A few weeks ago, I purchased my new Angulo Shaka XLT from Angulo Designs in Santa Cruz. So far, I am loving this board. Choosing a 14' is no easy task. There are so many good boards out on the market, you just have to decide what you want the board to be able to do. You have to be willing to make some compromises. I think the Shaka keeps those compromises to a minimum. It's great for downwind yet is surprisingly fast on flat water. Although there a bit of nose rocker, it goes up-wind pretty well. Despite having an "average" amount of volume for it's length, it sits really high in the water and has a ton of secondary stability. The XLT version weighs in at about 30 pounds which is pretty light for 14', relatively wide board.

If you want a good downwind/rough water board that's not too sluggish in the flats, not too heavy, not fragile, has understated yet beautiful graphics you should check out this board. Oh yeah, and it retails for about $1800 which makes it an incredible bargain. It's true that there is no board that excels in every aspect of the sport and all conditions, but this board comes close. You want to tour on it too? Put some shock cords on it and go, it can handle the weight. You are a big guy and want to do a little racing, go for it. If the wind is at your back or the conditions get rough, you just might have an advantage. You want to do some downwind runs on it? Well, this is the board for you.

To make this board perfect, they just need to start using the new undercut finger wells. This is a big board designed for windy conditions. Carrying the board to and from the water can be tricky in the wind. A better grip on the board would be great.

The wind picks up around here in March, I can't wait! Here's a little video I did after my first outing on the Shaka. Can you tell I like it? :)

The Wind Maker

About Me

SUP instructor for Blue Waters Kayaking and California Canoe & Kayak. I enjoy everything from taking people out on the water for their first SUP lesson to doing ten mile downwinders with a friend or two at my side and 30 knots of wind at my back!